Were you surprised that family and friends asked if you were going to have another baby while you were still pregnant? Or did your partner wink at you when your newborn first cracked a smile and you wanted to run and hide…or maybe you winked back?
Whether you’re already picturing growing your family or it’s the furthest thing from your mind, it’s time to think about how to keep your next baby at bay…at least for a little while. As you adjust to your new role, talk openly with your partner about how the stressors of birthing a new baby affect your feelings toward intimacy.
The good news is that unlike in past generations, there are many birth control options that provide flexibility to suit your needs. Discuss your concerns with your pregnancy care provider before or soon after you give birth. Ask about which options below best fit your body and health.
Intrauterine Device (IUD)
An IUD is a small device (hormonal or nonhormonal) inserted into the uterus. It prevents pregnancy for 3-10 years, depending on the type, and has a 99% success rate. You’ll need to wait until your body heals from giving birth, typically 6-12 weeks, before your health care provider inserts the device. An IUD may reduce or eliminate your monthly period.
Implant
The birth control implant is a small, flexible rod placed under the skin of your upper arm that slowly releases hormones to prevent pregnancy. Similar to a hormonal IUD, the implant thickens your cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to reach an egg. Implants are effective for up to 3 years and have a 99% success rate. Consider this option if you can’t use a method that contains the hormone estrogen.
Shot
The birth control shot is an injection of the hormone progestin, given every 3 months by a health care provider. It has a 99% success rate. However, if an injection is missed or late, the shot can be less effective. You have options for where the shot can be given, like your upper arm, buttock, stomach, or thigh. The shot can be used immediately after giving birth and while breastfeeding. You may also stop having periods.
Patch
The birth control patch is a thin patch worn on your skin that releases hormones into your bloodstream to prevent pregnancy. Each month, you’ll wear it for 3 weeks, then remove it and have your period the following week. Often, your cycle becomes lighter and more regular. If used correctly, the patch is just as effective as an IUD, an implant, and the shot. However, if the instructions aren’t followed exactly, your risk of getting pregnant increases.
Birth Control Pills
Birth control pills are contraceptives taken by mouth daily to prevent pregnancy. They were first approved by the FDA in the U.S. in 1960. They became available to every American in 1972. Birth control pills are 99% effective when taken consistently every day. They’re available in different combinations with some pills containing estrogen and progestin. Progestin-only pills may work well for those who are breastfeeding, have a history of blood clots, or need to avoid estrogen.
Vaginal Rings
There are two types of vaginal rings. Both are flexible, plastic rings that are inserted into the vagina and release hormones to prevent pregnancy. You’ll continue to have a period with either ring.
- One ring can be left in place for 3 weeks and removed for 1 week before a new ring is inserted each month.
- The other type of ring is inserted for three weeks and removed for one week, then re-inserted. You’ll repeat for 13 cycles before starting a new ring.
If you manage changing your ring of choice on time each time, it will be 99% effective. Otherwise, your pregnancy protection drops to about 93%.
Male Condoms
Male condoms are placed over the penis before sexual intercourse. They’re widely available, prevent pregnancy by blocking sperm from entering the vagina, and protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If used perfectly, they’re 98% effective at preventing pregnancy, however, average use lands at about 85%. Choose an alternative material if you or your partner are allergic to latex.
Female Condoms
Female condoms are placed inside the vagina or anus before sex. Similar to male condoms, they’re available over-the-counter, prevent pregnancy, and protect against STIs. Unlike most male condoms, they’re made from a combination of materials like polyurethan (a thin, plastic material), synthetic latex, silicone, or nitrile (a rubber like material) instead of latex. The female condom is about 95% effective at preventing pregnancy and can be inserted and worn up to 8 hours before intercourse.
Diaphragm
A diaphragm is a shallow, dome-shaped device that you insert into your vagina to cover your cervix in order to prevent sperm from reaching the uterus. It’s used with spermicide and on average about 83-84% effective at preventing pregnancy, perfect use climbs to 94% effective. Your health care provider will fit you for the right size and show you how to insert and remove. If you use after having your baby, your diaphragm will need to be refitted because pregnancy changes the shape of your cervix and vagina.
Fertility Awareness Methods
Fertility awareness methods involve tracking your menstrual cycles and fertility signs to identify fertile days and avoid unprotected sex during those times. With perfect use, the effectiveness is 91-99% and with average use, 76-88%.
Sterilization
Sterilization is a permanent birth control method for individuals who do not wish to have children or more of them. This includes tubal ligation for women and vasectomy for men. If interested, discuss this option with your pregnancy care provider, so you can learn the pros and cons of the procedure.
Contraceptive Gel
Contraceptive gel is a form of nonhormonal birth control that kills sperm and decreases their ability to move. It’s inserted into the vagina about 30 minutes before sex and offers protection for up to 1 hour. The gel is known as spermicide and is about 71% effective. Often, it’s used in combination with male condoms.
Considerations
Each type of birth control comes with risks and side effects. Many also involve schedules to maintain a high level of prevention. Talk to your nurse or pregnancy care provider to determine the best choice for you. Schedule a follow-up appointment within 3-6 months after you’ve begun using a new birth control method to ensure that it continues to work for your health and lifestyle.
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